Rick Ross Owes $5.7 Million in Unpaid Taxes

Rick Ross is in hot water with the Internal Revenue Service over $5.7 million in unpaid taxes. The rapper claims that his troubles resulted from a former accountant’s incorrect filing in 2012, accounting for the bulk ($4.6 million) of what he owes. The remaining costs (about $500,000 in 2013 and 2014) are factored into the grand total calculated by TMZ. In response to the reports, Ross released a statement accepting responsibility for the situation and assuring that it will all be handled shortly.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to experience financial success on a large scale through both my music career and my many business ventures,” he said. “With this type of financial success comes financial responsibility. As artists we are blessed to be able to make money, but on the same note, are held accountable for our federal tax obligations just like everyone else. I am fully aware of my current dealings with the IRS. This issue arose from an incorrect filing by a prior accountant for the 2012 tax year.”

Ross has retained new accountants to sort out the discrepancy, and expects a “full resolution” soon.

“My new team of accountants have corrected the prior filing, and as anyone who has dealt with the IRS understands, it is a process,” he added. “We have already satisfied a large portion of these issues and I can assure you that we are working very closely with the IRS to bring a full resolution shortly and will continue moving forward in a positive direction.”